Malware is short for ‘malicious software’, is a term to describe unauthorised
programs that are downloaded to your computer and cause disruption or damage to software or hardware.
Sometimes, malware is designed to use your computer’s ‘resources’ (such as memory) and other times it is simply designed to create an unpleasant experience. Malware can be accidentally downloaded through spam emails, or when downloading files from untrustworthy websites, such as file-sharing websites.
Spyware is a form of malware designed to collect your personal information.
Read PC Magazine's guide to Malware and how to get rid of it.
Last updated January 2023